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Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Youngstown Brings Back 'Fat' Sevens

Sevens is normally considered a spectators' sport for the heftier players, but Steel Valley Rugby out of Youngstown, Ohio is looking to change that. The club is bringing back its special brand of rugby with the return of its Too Fat for Sevens tournament. After last year's success, the competition has returned, with a twist.

There are no set brackets for this year's tournament. Rather, teams and seeds will be decided on the day of the tournament based upon attendance and participation. One change from last year is that there are no minimum weight requirements. However, this has changed how the scores will be calculated as well. This year, points will be awarded by the pound. Essentially, the heavier the scorer, the more the try will be worth - this does not apply to accumulated weights should a maul occur.

The try scoring values are as follows:

Less than 180lbs - 1 point

181lbs to 200lbs - 2 points

201lbs to 225lbs - 3 points

226lbs to 250lbs - 4 points

251lbs to 270lbs - 5 points

271lbs to 299lbs - 8 points

Over 300lbs - 10 points

There are no entry fees for this tournament, but donations are suggested. Collected donations will go towards the Borts Field Fund. Participants are also encouraged to bring food for a potluck style social that will be held during and after the tournament.

Following the motley sevens tournament will be a 15s match and a sevens tournament for the ladies. The women's tournament will follow standard rules.

Everything kicks off at 10:00am on July 2, 2016 and go until all the teams are done and the food is gone. Everything will take place at Bailey Park in Youngstown, Ohio.